- Recommended
Lancaster City Museum
City museum in the old town hall with archaeology, local history, and decorative arts. A strong introduction to Lancaster’s past.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Preston to Lancaster
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 29
Cheapest price on Oct 29
$13
Average ticket price on Oct 29
$13
Fastest journey on Oct 29
35 m
Average journey duration on Oct 29
35 m
Buses on Oct 29
1
Distance
34 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Preston to Lancaster is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Lancaster will cost around $13 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $13.
Fast buses
On Thu, Oct 29, we found 1 buses from Preston to Lancaster, including 1 direct services.
On Thu, Oct 29 the direct buses cover the 34 km distance in an average of 35 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 35 m .
On Thu, Oct 29 the slowest buses will take 35 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
NX1812:25 AM 0h35 Preston, Bus Station 3:00 AM Lancaster, Bus Station (Damside Street) $13 1 One-way 0 transfers
- NX181
2:25 AM 0h35 Preston, Bus Station 3:00 AM Lancaster, Bus Station (Damside Street) $13 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Preston to Lancaster
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Preston to Lancaster run on average 1 times per day, taking around 35m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $11 (€9) but you can travel from only $6 (€5) by train.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:56. The fastest bus covers the 21 miles (34 km) distance in 35m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $6 (€5)
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance21 miles (34 km)
- Average bus duration35m
- Cheapest ticket price$11 (€9)
- Buses per day1
- Direct buses1
- Fastest bus35m
- First bus12:05 AM
- Last bus11:56 PM
- Cheapest MonthJul
- Cheapest DaySun
- High SeasonJul - Sep
- Low SeasonJan - Mar
- Busiest DaySat
- Least Busy DayMon
- Best time to book7 days
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $6 (€5)
Frequently asked questions about your Preston to Lancaster trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Preston to Lancaster.
Cheap bus tickets from Preston to Lancaster can start from as little as $11 (€9) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Preston to Lancaster is $12 (€10) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Preston to Lancaster leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Preston to Lancaster leaves at 11:56 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Preston to Lancaster with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
Preston to Lancaster Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:25AM | Arrival Time 02:00AM | Duration 0h35 | Departure days Mon, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $12 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:25AM | Arrival Time 03:00AM | Duration 0h35 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $12 |
Operator Transpennine Express | Departure Time 08:46AM | Arrival Time 09:36AM | Duration 0h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $12 |
Operator Transpennine Express | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 11:20AM | Duration 0h50 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $12 |
Operator Transpennine Express | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 03:20PM | Duration 0h50 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $13 |
Live departures
Preston to Lancaster bus times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Lancaster buses for tomorrow, Thursday, October 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX181 | 2:25 AM Preston, Bus Station | 0h35 | 3:00 AM Lancaster, Bus Station (Damside Street) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Preston to Lancaster buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Preston to Lancaster.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Lancaster.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare National Express with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston to Lancaster.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Preston to Lancaster.
Bus companies
Bus companies from Preston to Lancaster
Buses from Preston to Lancaster with National Express. Overnight buses available on this route with National Express. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
National Express
About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average National Express Duration
35m
Cheapest National Express Price
$11 (€9)
National Express frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
Bikes
Folding Bikes are allowed; non-folding bikes are not allowed.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Preston and Lancaster
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from Preston to Lancaster, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Lancaster. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Preston and Lancaster and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Preston to Lancaster:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Preston to Lancaster for bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Preston to Lancaster depends on the bus companies:
- National Express
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Preston to Lancaster.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Preston to Lancaster:
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Preston to Lancaster:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Preston to Lancaster.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Preston to Lancaster with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Preston to Lancaster with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Preston to Lancaster with the following bus company: National Express.
Complete guide to Lancaster
Things to do in Lancaster
Discover the best of Lancaster — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Lancaster trip today.
- Recommended
Lancaster Maritime Museum
Maritime museum in the old customs house exploring Lancaster’s port history, trade, and seafaring links across Morecambe Bay and beyond.
- Recommended
Judges' Lodgings Museum
Period house museum with Gillow furniture, fine interiors, and stories of law and domestic life. One of Lancaster’s best heritage visits.
- Must visit
Williamson Park
Hilltop park with woodland walks, city views, and the Ashton Memorial. A favorite green space that combines scenery, heritage, and easy strolling.
- Recommended
Castle Hill
Elegant Georgian street with some of Lancaster’s finest architecture. Ideal for appreciating the city’s prosperous 18th-century streetscape.
- Recommended
Dalton Square
Tree-lined civic square framed by impressive public buildings and monuments. A central open space often used for events and seasonal displays.
- Vegetarian
Garstang Biscuits
Buttery shortbread-style biscuits linked to nearby market town Garstang. A classic Lancashire teatime treat with a crumbly texture and local heritage.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Hotpot
A robust hotpot of lamb or mutton with onions, often topped with sliced potatoes. It is one of Lancashire’s best-known traditional comfort dishes.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Cheese
Crumbly white cow’s milk cheese traditionally made in Lancashire. It is prized for its fresh, tangy taste and long-standing regional cheesemaking history.
Quite Simply French
Refined modern British tasting menus in an elegant, intimate setting. One of Lancaster’s standout fine dining destinations.
The Water Witch
Long-established canal-side pub and restaurant known for cask ales, British classics and a traditional atmosphere in a historic setting.
The Quarterhouse
Stylish bistro serving French-inspired and modern European dishes. Popular for polished cooking and a relaxed city-centre atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and everyday meals stay fairly reasonable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Taxis are often rounded up. Cafes usually do not require tips, but small change is appreciated.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Lancaster Bus Station -> Lancaster Railway Station
- Distance
- 0.6 km
- Travel time
- 8 min
- Most local buses in Lancaster accept contactless card payment as well as cash. Check the fare before boarding if you need a day ticket.
- Lancaster city centre is compact, and Lancaster Bus Station is within easy walking distance of the railway station and main shopping streets.
Plan your visit to Lancaster
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Lancaster.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Lancaster, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and occasional petty theft, especially in crowded areas and popular tourist spots. It's advisable to be wary of unsolicited offers for transportation or tours, as some may involve overcharging or scams. Always use licensed transportation services and verify ticket sellers to avoid counterfeit tickets. Staying alert and safeguarding personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
FAQs: Bus from Preston to Lancaster
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston to Lancaster by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Lancaster, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Preston and Lancaster including taking a bus and train.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Preston to Lancaster
Most Preston to Lancaster buses use the Preston, Bus Station to Lancaster, Bus Station (Damside Street) station pair. Use this guide to compare Preston and Lancaster bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Preston
Arrival bus stations in Lancaster
Which Preston station do buses to Lancaster leave from?
Buses from Preston to Lancaster leave from Preston, Bus Station. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Preston city centre at Preston Bus Station, Tithebarn St, Preston PR1 1YT, UK.
Preston, Bus StationPreston Bus Station, Tithebarn St, Preston PR1 1YT, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston, Bus Station from Preston city centre
Preston, Bus Station is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus23 · 6m · $11 · every ~8 min
Preston, Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Preston, Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafes and fast food are available within the station.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi is available in the station concourse. ATMs are multiple ATMs are located in the main concourse.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Preston, Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Preston, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston, Bus Station: Full accessibility for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Which Lancaster station do buses from Preston arrive at?
Buses from Preston to Lancaster arrive at Lancaster, Bus Station (Damside Street). Lancaster, Bus Station (Damside Street) is 1 miles (3 km) from Lancaster city centre.
Lancaster, Bus Station (Damside Street)Lancaster, Lancaster LA1 1HH, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Lancaster, Bus Station (Damside Street) from Lancaster city centre
Lancaster, Bus Station (Damside Street) is 2 km from Lancaster city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
Lancaster, Bus Station (Damside Street) bus station facilities and services
Lancaster, Bus Station (Damside Street) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Several cafes and eateries around the station.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Lancaster, Bus Station (Damside Street). ATMs are available at Lancaster, Bus Station (Damside Street).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Lancaster, Bus Station (Damside Street).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lancaster, Bus Station (Damside Street): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lancaster, Bus Station (Damside Street): Wheelchair-accessible platform and pathways.
Bus stations for Preston to Lancaster
Check bus stations information for Preston and Lancaster, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Preston, Bus Station, which is located around 1 miles (2 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Lancaster, Bus Station (Damside Street), located 3 away from the city centre.
Most popular bus connections from Preston
Most popular buses to and from Lancaster and Preston
Most popular bus connections to Lancaster
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